A Space Without Boundaries: Preserving Dave Bamford's Legacy
Beyond the textbooks and classrooms that characterize the University of Regina, there are memories that live – and nostalgic echoes that linger – within its walls. The space we have affectionately regarded as the AdHum “Pit”, for instance, is a cherished part of people’s untold stories. One such story belongs to Business Administration alumnus Greg Bamford, Class of 2000, which, like many others, has remained untold – until now.
Located on the main floor of the Administration-Humanities building on main campus, this signature sunken lounge has long served as a popular gathering spot for students, faculty, and staff for more than five decades, renowned for its once distinct orange carpet that harkened back to the 1970s aesthetic.
On countless evenings and summer days when his wife was at work, Dave would take Greg to campus, rather than paying for a babysitter. Meanwhile Dave, the University of Regina Director of Budgets/Resource Planning at the time, carried out his duties on the fifth floor of the Administration-Humanities building. The building’s open concept allowed Dave to keep a watchful eye on his son, as he played in the AdHum Pit below, in harmony with the faint murmur of students huddled in study, friendly chatter, and shared laughter. Greg will never forget the long hours his father spent in deep concentration, poring over budgets and campus planning documents, paying meticulous attention to every detail, oftentimes with Greg beside him and well after the workday had ended.
“For Dad, it was more than just a job – the University and its place in Wascana Centre was his lifelong passion,” recalls Greg. “Whenever I see the projects he managed on campus, such as the Riddell Centre, I still feel his presence. Dad loved spaces where non-academic aspects of campus life flourished. My relationship with the University became layered with deeper meaning when I pursued my degree and took on half a dozen jobs there. It’s also where fate brought me and Christie – now my better half – together, not far from the AdHum Pit in fact.”
The U of R will always be a second home to Greg.
“For me, the AdHum Pit encapsulates the very spirit of my alma mater. So, when I found out the University was raising money to revitalize, improve, and make this space accessible to everyone in celebration of its 50th anniversary, it felt like the perfect moment, and way, to honour Dad’s legacy,” the alumnus added. “After all, he played a foundational role and had an active presence in the University’s rich history for 30 years professionally, and an additional 10 unofficially in his retirement.”
I’m so excited to help ensure this communal space remains for future generations to enjoy – a space that will witness many unforgettable memories being made and woven into its walls.
— Greg Bamford, BAdmin'00
It is with immense appreciation that we announce Greg’s generous leadership pledge of $50,000 to the AdHum Pit initiative, in memory of his late father, who passed away in November of 2023. Another 129 donors rallied alongside him to make this project possible. Working together through the shared vision of the University and its community of supporters, we have been able to renew a vital space for student life and a gathering place that is accessible to all.
“I’m so excited to help ensure this communal space remains for future generations to enjoy – a space that will witness many unforgettable memories being made and woven into its walls. A space that will occupy a place in people’s hearts, as it does mine. And one that will continue to be without boundaries.”
“All of the campus spaces that Dad helped shape,” Greg went on to say, “were his love letter to the University.”
Greg, our message to you is this – we see your gift to the University as your love-filled letter to your dad, which will be forever remembered.
Banner photo: (Lt to rt) Greg Bamford with his wife Christie and his father Dave Bamford. Credit: Greg Bamford.